Posted by Hal Bailey
a resident of Danville
on Sep 4, 2009 at 12:52 pm

Dear Dolores,

General, I have trouble with the colors of MVHS and other Danville Schools. I think a more subtle color choice such as a light warm green/beige would allow these large buildings to fit better into their community.

It is SAFE to say that a better color choice would help this discussion.

If you're the same Julia I've heard from before, this last comment doesn't seem to vibe. Maybe I don't understand the comment. Maybe you're extremely multifaceted.

Anywho, our education system is no longer designed to help our children first. Fundamental rule of poli-sci: bureaucracies and institutions become self-perpetuating. They become their own animal, an animal that looks out for its interests. What do I mean?

Let's start with class sizes. One must think, why exactly do we need smaller class sizes. Why do we need so few kids per teacher than other nations that outperform us in graduation rates and output of scientists and engineers and other valuable minds that are the core of a nation's economy? The answer is - WE DON'T!

Before I go one, let it be known that education is the single most costly burden to California, resulting in the degradation of our infrastructure to third world status. The liberals' only solution is "I guess we have to tax more." No. WE NEED TO STOP OVERSPENDING ON S***!

So, what is the singlemost agenda that one could imagine that would serve the teachers', or more aptly, the teachers' unions, in their greatest self-interest?

HIRING MORE TEACHERS. SMALLER CLASS SIZES = HIRE MORE TEACHERS = MORE MONEY IN DUES TO THE UNIONS

Don't you love the simplicity of a true equation.

Anyway, this is exactly the reason why they lie about the necessity of small class sizes. Don't get me wrong. A lot of them lie to themselves too. They have started believing their own bulls***. Frankly, let's not hype teachers for more than they are. They're not supermen. They're not that awesome half the time. In fact, for every phrase they have talking about how incredible they are and how their job is the most important, I remember "those who can't do - teach."

That's not true of them all. I know a lot that are absolutely stellar. Fire the idiots- pay the teachers still around more. You raise the class size to forty at least. You lay off half the teachers. The ones still around are the cream of the crop. They get paid fifty percent more than prior. We as taxpayers still come out with 25% less cash spent on teachers, which are the single greatest expense of the education system, which is the single greatest expense of the taxpayers. So how do we keep control of the classroom?

That's simple. The kids must be more physically active. One of the cruelest things to do to kids, particularly young kids, is to force them to sit hours on end. Physical education must be half of the curriculum. This is where I reflect back to the great founding education systems in Europe and America, where the turnout of world-changing minds was infinitely superior to those of today. Physical education was preeminent. They did everything from taking a light jog through the woods, to fencing. Now that's fun. That's stuff kids dig. The greatest systems focused heavily on getting the kids eating well and being physically active in a fun and exhilarating and body-defining way. However, the teachers' unions for so long have fought the riddance of candy and soft drinks in schools, because said junk foods are taxed, and said taxes go to funding the "schools," ie: them. Why do I say just them? Because you don't give someone something harmful and say "But I'll use the money to buy cool stuff for you." You don't say, "here kid, buy these cigarettes. I know you'll just get them elsewhere and we'll use the taxes for you."

Right.

Then there's illegal immigration. The education system is one of the biggest proponents of illegal immigration. Why? Because more people, especially people who have a disproportionate amount of kids, means we need to hire more teachers. For those who are naive, yes we do have illegals in our education system, A LOT. 28% of the students in California are illegal immigrants, all funded by us - the taxpayer. The state is mandated to give money to schools who have greater enrollment. For every student they bring into the classroom, the "school" gets a greater fee and they have to hire more teachers because, after all, we can't get all crazy and have like 22 kids in a class. Holy s*** that's madness!!!

So we hire more teachers. We also have to hire biligual educators and translators who get paid a healthy stipend. To digress slightly for a moment, do you realize that Spanish translators in our courtrooms in Contra Costa are in such high demand that the government offers them a salary upwards of $75,000 a year. Think about that.

Then you have the group homes. These are yet more ways to bring in more students to scrape out those two or three more teachers per town, maybe a dozen soon, for the extra classes needed. Of course, it's no surprise that our first gangland style murder in Danville did not come from locals, but came from a little thug from Richmond who was brought into our community, unchecked, unwatched, to do as he pleased. We have a different culture over here. Thank God! When we artificially break the homogeneity, we do so at the risk of our children, which is what the teachers purport to care for. And as important as it is to make sure our kids are educated, is it not more important that we protect their lives, THAT WE PREVENT THUGS FROM COMING IN HERE THAT WILL EXECUTE THEM WITH A SHOT TO THE BACK OF THE SKULL!!!!

But, those who run the education system are just a bunch of reverse racists trying to make up for all the "bad things whites have done in the past." A few white boys can die in the name of that.

If I had to guess, Hal Bailey & Julia have lived here all of their lives and think that Danville is so perfect. I have seen more than one school system, and I know that Danville is not great. I don’t want to say that it is bad, because we all know that Danville may be one of the better schools in the area or the state for that matter, but it does not compare to the rest of our country.

Our kids go to school for fewer days and less hours than other parts of the country. Our teachers have the privilege of tenure which allows them to slack off and not care or try as hard as they would if they didn’t. No job should be secure. Every teacher should work as if they had to prove that they were the best candidate for the job every day.

I was blown away at back to school night when the teacher said she couldn’t teach for a whole 25 minutes (I believe twice a week). Why are the kids in school? They don’t need 3 recesses, they need to be taught. Why don’t they start school later or come home earlier if the teachers can’t teach, that is crazy.

Plus, these teachers don’t know how good they have it. They have more volunteers helping them do their job than any other school or any other job for that matter.

And what about the drug problems? What about bullying? What about the financial well being of our schools?

I was hoping that we could have some real comments, maybe some real ideas, maybe some real people who care. Nothing is perfect and if you think our schools are perfect, then we don’t have a chance of making them better.

I see MVHS as mild terracotta somewhat like the color of desert mud. As we color our schools, we need to understand the impact of such vision. Again a pale earthen green would bring a less visible issue to our schools and make them less outstanding.

Now, if we build the Arnold Stang Center for the Comedic Arts above the MVHS parking lot, to be known as the Stang Center, we could choose a vivid color that explains our bright view of such public humor.

We need smaller classes because most of our teachers can’t handle the spoiled disrespectful kids in their class. These kids make if very difficult to teach. Maybe parents should start to teach manners and discipline their kids.

Overspending is another problem, but spending money on frivolous things to make our schools look better and manipulating money to make the books look better need to stop. We need more accountability.

Teacher unions are a major problem, but unions in general are a problem for all companies.

I like the idea you had about being physical during the day instead of sitting all day. Many schools are testing ideas of standing or sitting on exercise balls and bouncing during class lessons. Initial results look promising.

Illegal immigration is another major problem. Don’t forget people…they are here breaking the law…and we are paying for them to break our laws.

The mention of group homes brings many opinions. As mentioned in other (Danville Weekly) comments, kids should get a 2nd chance, but now that we know this group home has brought in killers, rapists, and drug dealers, I would rather not see them in my town.

Colors are not going to help students feel safe nor provide a solid education.

Teachers and parents provide our children with the education that will carry them into their future. Do we have a few teachers that should choose another profession - yes; however, for the most part the teachers in our schools are doing a great job. Is the money the answer - not always but it sure helps. Ask anyone living in Danville & San Ramon why they live here and not in Richmond, then look at the socioeconomic structure of each area and ask yourself if money helps.

Rick: From where did you get the 28% figure of illegal children in the schools. If they were born here, they are citizens. Perhaps we need to change the 14th Amendment of the Constitution. Many countries do not have citizenship "ius soli" (law of the soil determined by where born) but "ius sanguinis" (law of blood - determined by citizenship of parents).

Perhaps we should start asking candidates their opinion on these issues. The attitude of many candidates and officeholders indicate they are not really concerned about the opinion of the citizens nor the financial drain on the states. The Federal Government seems to allow many things but does not financially recompense the states with the consequence of what they allow. Nor do our state representatives discuss the financial drain on California.

Question: Did any local authority, state or federal legislator mention the financial drain on the system of illegals during the financial mess of the recent state budget? If so, I didn't hear it or read it.

If that figure of 28% is accurate, than illegals are contributing to the California budget deficit. The budget of the Los Angeles School District is over $2,000,000,000. Then there are the medical and other social services that are allowed. If the United States goes under, what will happen to many countries we try to help financially?

In the Stang Center there will be a hall of mirrors so we can see ourselves as superficial comedy. At first, we thought of fun house distorted mirrors, but we all decided that true reflection is the best result.

Thank you Andrew Gardner for being honest. I can only hope that my child has the privilege of having a good, honest teacher who can say “thank you”. So far, we have not been that fortunate. But I truly believe it is just this one elementary school. The teachers even walk by without a smile or a “hi” out in public. I find this to be so rude.

Posted by Master
a resident of another community
on Sep 8, 2009 at 8:11 pm

To Lynne: "Amen"

May I ask what religion has to do with a comment from a human? I am not sure if you believe that Rick is some sort of supernatural being?

To Andrew Gardner: As you might know, you as a teacher gets 50% of the house mortgage with a loan from the government because of your teacher status. Also, you get paid for not working during the summer. And you will get a pension even when you are old and senile. You are set for life. Do not complain too much. You get a raise of 5-10% per yr. You have a job, appreciate it.

And Rick , please do not respond to my post, it has nothing to do with you, illegal immigration, or group homes. FYI, there is only one group home in Danville, check San Ramon 7 of them, but you probably do not know how to check where group homes are located.

The schools of Danville are fine, what do you have to complain about? Though I have to say, that most teachers should go to anger management classes, and be evaluated for their mental fitness. And check them for narcotics possession, you would be surprised... SRVUSD pays settlements and legal fees for all the screw-ups that teachers have and are making. Violation of Autistic children’s’ rights, discrimination, free grade give aways for members of specific cults.

I have lived here for 21 years and in that time no teacher has received a 5 - 10% annual raise.

Disrespectful, ill-mannered children are raised by all socio-economic level parents. I have witnessed many here in our valley full of well paid individuals.

Marie, it sounds like your elementary school has some issues. I'm sorry your experience hasn't been positive. You are right - they are not all like that in the SRVUSD. I have raised two boys in San Ramon in this school district and have been very involved. No school system is "perfect" for everybody and one must get involved in order to effect change (improvement).

In addition to resolving the major issue of school colors, we might examine the need for more murals depicting the roles of schools in education. Large murals along the way to class rooms may provoke thoughts among students and teachers of the partnership in generating well-educated, thinking adults.

Imagine, murals both depictive and abstract that present education occurring at school, in daily life and in the surrounding bay area. As a book is a constant presenter of thought, such murals could be continuous reminders of the educational partnership between teachers and students.

Obviously, what is being taught is the most important thing, but I'd like to add this:
I encourage all parents of MVHS & SRVHS students to walk by the school (time permitting) and see what the kids are wearing. It is unreal what the kids show up to school in these days. Tiny shorts with knee socks, cleavage- baring spaghetti tanks, boys with their pants sagging so low they can't walk. The teachers are scared to call any of the girls out for fear it will seem that they were "checking them out". Go take a look....you might be surprised.
Also, they need to make it grounds for suspension to bring iPods/MP3 players into the classroom. The teachers are way too lenient about this. It has created a culture of kids who think it's fine to sit in class and listen to their own playlist instead of the teacher.

Freckle: I understand your opinion, and I too, initially thought that Rick was a bit extreme. However, now that I have read many of his comments, I believe he really does cares about our town and wants to make it a better, safer place to live for all of us.

I have met many rude, disrespectful, and conceited Danville adults. They care more about looking good and keeping their Danville reputations than taking care of their own kids and teaching them how to respect other people and other people’s property. Also they don’t teach their kids the value of money or how to take care of things.

I would prefer Rick to be my neighbor over any of them because he speaks what’s on his mind, you may not like what he says, but it is his honest opinion. Unlike many other’s who smile and talk nice to your face, then go and talk behind your back making up lies or spreading rumors that they don’t know anything about just to protect themselves. Rick does not seem like that type of person.

Lili: Again, it goes back to the parents. There have been girls in my child’s elementary school that dress like I did when I was 18 going to a night club. I think it is disgusting, cover up, especially at school. Parents should ask themselves “if an 8-year-old is dressing revealing now, what is she going to be wearing and doing in high school?”

No, I don't belief our kids are safe in Danville schools. Morals are not missing at all levels of the system; the educators, the parents and the students. Yes, we do live differently from those in communities around us. It is not the money alone. I work with people from all different socioeconomic classes. It has never been the money that defines anyones character and morals. I am a new reader and unlike Freckle I agree with Rick. Rick is not ranting or raving. He is stating his opinion. Sadly, most people are like Freckle, apathetic. It's okay Freckle, don't bother to find out if what Rick is saying is true or worthy of concern, There is plenty of good reading about mirrors and faded colors.

I have heard of corruption in the SRVUSD PTA (a few years back). I have heard of drugs and gangs being in our schools (news from this year both middle and high schools). I have heard that our district has a law suit against them.

Most of this is all hush hush, but people like to talk. I would like more details, but it is hard to find. Anyone interested in stilling what they know? But I would like facts, more than opinions, although, opinions are very interesting too.

Posted by The Reverend
a resident of Danville
on Sep 9, 2009 at 12:07 pm

First thing we should all start with is it's nice to see that Danville parents care.

I think one ill fated opinion would be to blame the teachers Union. I’m not a teacher nor Union member, however very much see the need for a Union. The management of all firms and SCHOOL districts act as a Union. They Stay United. Thus teachers need to acts in numbers to achieve their goals, sometimes which are in direct opposition with the DISTRICT. I personally believe that at the Districts money is there first and foremost concern. Who knows the issues better then the people in the classroom? That however, is not always what the district cares about. At the DISTRICT LEVEL are political wannabees? Eh? Think on it, Of the last several Congressional men and women, were they not one time School District employees? Using that as their platform? How CARING they are?

---------
Sara Palin - President of the PTA. Not school board, but a position that influences money decisions.

This is a somewhat un-exhaustive list, and was all obtained from a small search of the directory for Congress, only using California as my search area, and I got tired of reading. I think this makes some of my point.

If all these now law makers and powerful people are caring board members, why are the schools in so much trouble?

So in summary, I really think that’s where we should be looking. Maybe we should be making smarter choices for the School Board. That’s who decides the money allocations and special interest programs. Seems to me, that in the state of the world, and since this seems to be the training ground for going on to city politics which almost always leads to State Politics, the School Board members that save money and feed there friends special interest groups get more campaign attention and money, on goes their career. The teachers are not in charge of there own Salaries. The School Board members are. Teachers don’t control the budget, the School Board does.

Biggest deal here, in my opinion, parents should be more concerned how HAPPY their children are. Not if they can do algebra at the age of 6. Have you ever given a 4 year old a nice little toy that you really think they are going to just love, only to find that the box it came in is the biggest deal? What does this have to do with it. Focus. Focus on things that matter. Let you kids have fun, and grow ON THERE OWN. Not you running them from thing to thing, to make yourself look and feel better. I ask, what is wrong with the Danville school district? Are the kids coming home unhappy, and unsafe? Or are you mostly concerned that they are not as book smart as the kids in Orinda?

Posted by Just so you know
a resident of Walnut Creek
on Sep 9, 2009 at 2:38 pm

I was insulted by the teacher rally last year that was held in favor of repealing GPO and WEP. Repealing GPO would do little more than make teachers a privileged special class of citizens. WEP should be modified but not eliminated.

Posted by Mom
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 9, 2009 at 2:52 pm

Marie,

My daughter is a student at SRVHS, in her freshman year, a female student that she knew from class was attacked in the bathroom and my daughter heard her and ran for help. Needless to say, she will not go into the restroom by herself. I was amazed at the length of time it took the district/school to alert the parents. This occurred the last week before the winter break and then at least another couple of weeks before I received a email from the district/school explaining the situation. There were 2 boy's involved and I believe they were expelled from the district, these boys were from the group home. This did occur a couple of years ago, so my timeline may be off, but I was very upset that we (parents/guardians) were not informed immediately. Does anyone else remember this incident? If so, please correct me if I am wrong.

Posted by diablo reader
a resident of Danville
on Sep 9, 2009 at 11:36 pm

Education is a group effort. Yes, teachers need to be held accountable. BUT IT TAKES PARENTS TO COMPLAIN IF THEIR CHILDS TEACHER IS FAILING TO DO THEIR JOB. So many parents say " I don't want to cause a problem". Then there is the parents - you need to be RESPONSIBLE for YOUR child. Do not blame their bad choices on teachers, schools, friends. YOU need to be PARENTS ! They are reflecting what they are learning at HOME. And finally, if you are not happy about what is happening at school, GO VOLUNTEER! It is the best way to stay in touch with what is going around YOUR child. As for the illegals, tell big business to stop HIRING them. Then they won't come here to live with their families and children.
People - make the effort, learn, help anything to help the children - they will be running the country when we are old and frankly it terrifies me. One more note: It cost $7,000 to educate a student per year (roughly depending on state) and $41,000.00 to keep them in jail. Something to think about.

Posted by Sharon
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 10, 2009 at 7:52 am

Mom, I remember the incident as well. I believe the boys were expelled - I don't know if they were from the group home or not. My son had a similar issue in the bathroom(physical/mental bullying) when he was in middle school and the faculty allowed him to use the bathroom they used. The boys (there were 4) that went after him were local boys and ended up in Saturday school, but this was middle school and they didn't harm him enough to leave any marks on him. I was VERY upset, but ultimately felt the school handled it well and they checked in with my son and the other boys (and the parents of those boys who would return their calls!) frequently afterward.

I did think afterward that a support group of sorts for parents would be a good idea. Not necessarily within any particular school, but in general - to discuss issues such as bullying.

BTW- what a great daughter you have that had the courage to get help for the other girl. That takes some presence of mind to know to do the right thing. My son didn't have that (the other kids were afraid of the kids who went after him, so he was on his own).

Posted by Sharon
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 10, 2009 at 3:01 pm

Rick, my impression was that "Mom" was asking for clarification regarding her recollection of the events at SRVHS, and that Marie posted this topic as an opportunity for parents of children in the schools and the children themselves to post regarding their concerns. It appears you are incapable of entering into dialogue that does not dovetail with your own agenda.

There was no comparison, just one mom sharing with another. It sounded like this was what Marie was asking for and I applauded her efforts to create a safe environment for this to occur (unless I have misunderstood, Marie). Your regular rants are consistent and with an obvious agenda, they do not deter me in the least.

BTW - Numbskull? Seriously? Can you get through a disagreement without name calling?

i grew up in san leandro but went to middle and high schools in this district and i am very grateful i did. the schools here are so much nicer than others around the east bay. people should be proud of their schools, they do an excellent job and the rif-raf or crime or whatever you call it, is practically non-existant. although stuff happens and everybody's probably heard of one example, they so rarely occur like 1 out a million times, i never felt any less safe. being from another city with much more rif raf and never feeling safe around that environment, i was so happy and relieved to have that security for the first time at iron horse middle school in san ramon and san ramon valley high school in danville. the best thing my parents gave me was the opportunity to earn the best education possible. just graduating this june, i feel so fortunate because something that's so easy to take for granted, the quality of a school, made all the difference. it was a very friendly environment; every teacher i had was top notch and so good at what they do, that i never struggled. i feel students who didn't grow up here may not realize how great it is to experience something like this if you never had before. many places dont do anywhere near the job our district does. and if you stay out of bad crowds and do well in school like i did, anybody can suceed and literaly enjoy every minute of it.

i hope to give my children the same education i received here someday and tell parents value this gift for your children because it's such a blessing.

Posted by Andrew Gardner
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 10, 2009 at 8:44 pm

Oh Master

Since your post, I have been researching a teacher loan program in which I would receive "50% of the house mortgage with a loan from the government because of your teacher status." Could you please let me know where I can find this. Even though we both have credit scores over 750, my wife and I have been unable to secure a home loan for the 3 homes we have put offers on over the past 3 years. Just provide a website or something. I have looked everywhere and spoken with several agents including my in-laws. They don't seem to know of this loan benefit to teachers of which you speak.

Secondly, I don't get paid in the summer. I get my monthly salary pay in June and a monthly salary pay in August.

Thirdly, I have never received a 5 or 10% percent raise during my tenure in the SRVUSD. Am I missing something? You seem to know a lot of benefits that I am not receiving. Please tell me who to talk to about receiving these benefits.

Fourthly, you are right. I will get a pension just like millions of other Americans who work for companies and corporations. I am not, nor do I consider myself, special because of my job.

And lastly, if it seemed like I was complaining in my previous post, the one in which I stated how thankful I was to be in such a good school district, I apologize for insinuating that emotion. I wouldn't trade my job for anything and I can't imagine waking up and going to work anywhere else.

Master, I look forward to hearing from you. My wife and I would really love to buy a house!

Posted by Sharon
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 11, 2009 at 8:26 am

Mr. Gardner - my son had you at SRVHS and I know you to be a wonderful teacher. Your post demonstrated no complaints, either overt or covert. I appreciate your humorous response to "master" and had shared that particular post to my neighbor who has been a teacher in this district for over 30 years. She wasn't surprised at the misinformation that is out there about teachers as she has been "justifying her worth" (her words) in spite of consistently excellent feedback throughout her career.

I'm glad you like your job and do it in spite of the financial pitfalls and I hope you stick with it, right here - I have yet another child on their way to your classroom in a year - hopefully!

This is actually Rick, but I'm putting in a comment written by a student of SRVUSD on the article about Rylan Fuchs' murderer being back in custody. For those who don't know, Rylan was murdered by a group home thug

"I go to that school, and the students here...aka your children... all agree that this is a tragedy that could've been prevented if the group homes were not put in what we would consider neighborhoods that are generally low-crimed and well off. Even though such is quite a discriminating assumption, it is an assumption of the group homes based on evidence of the past, such as the rape case that occurred at the high school.Though, I must agree that this is definitely a generalization... past experiences have shown it is a legitimate one.

HOWEVER, I do not believe either one of these bickering adults are truly knowledgeable... In both the rape and the murder case, the victims both chose to mix in with the offenders in the first place. They both knew what these two were involved in and chose to talk and to associate with these kids. I do not believe (and this is addressed to Rick) that preventing group home kids from coming into Danville will actually prevent Danville kids from seeking such bad influences. And for you doubters of these previous statement.. trust me, the kids, especially teenagers, of our community are far from innocent."

I wanted to show the whole comment to be fair. Obviously, I agree with the first paragraph more than the second. Where I vehemently disagree is that Rylan would've been killed by a local Danville kid if the group home hoodie was not around. This is an abject falsehood. Kids have been smoking pot and buying it for decades at MV. I know cause I was one of them. I knew the worst of the worst locally and they were nothing compared to these hoodies in the group home. No, pot didn't kill Rylan. The adults who brought in this group home did.

I strongly disagree with the "she had it coming" attitude of this student towards the girl who was almost raped by two group home guys sneaking up on her in the bathroom.

The reason I posted this was to show that most of the students know what's up. They know how to keep themselves safer - get rid of the group homes. But where are the teachers and administrators? Why don't they listen to the healthy fears of the students of the area? Why don't they listen to the parents? Because they don't care about us. We gotta make them care.

All you kids out there, if the group home thugs bother you, you can join our class action lawsuit and earn some of your parent's cash back from the government which uses their money to endanger your lives.

Jose Illegal has full Medical and Dental coverage through the state and local clinics at a cost of $0.00 per year. Jose Illegal still has $31,200.00.

Joe Legal makes too much money to be eligible for Food Stamps or Welfare so Joe Legal pays for food... $1,000.00 per month = $12,000.00 per year. Joe Legal now has $7,231.00.

Jose Illegal has no documented income and is eligible for Food Stamps and Welfare. Jose Illegal still has $31,200.00.
Joe Legal pays rent of $1,000.00 per month = $12,000.00 per year. Joe Legal is now in the hole -$4,769.00.

Jose Illegal receives a $500 per month Federal rent subsidy, which entirely pays his rent of $500.00 per month = $6,000.00 per year. Jose Illegal still has $31,200.00.

Joe Legal now works overtime on Saturdays and gets a part time job after work to make ends meet.

Jose Illegal has nights and weekends off to enjoy with his family.
Joe Legal's and Jose Illegal's children both attend the same school.
Joe Legal pays for his children's lunches while Jose Illegal's children get free government sponsored lunches.

Joe Legal's children go home after school. Jose Illegal's children have an after school ESL program which, again, is provided free of charge.

Joe Legal and Jose Illegal both enjoy the same Police and Fire Services, but Joe Legal paid for them and Jose Illegal did not pay.

Posted by Just so you know
a resident of Walnut Creek
on Sep 11, 2009 at 10:39 amJust so you know is a registered user.

Mr. Gardner -

I admire your response to Master. I have no problem with the pension negotiated by a union. A union's job is to get the best deal for its members. However, I was appalled at the lack of full disclosure supplied by the teachers' union and this paper regarding GPO during the meeting earlier this year. GPO is a situation faced by ALL dual income families. In fact, teachers receive a better deal under GPO than the average dual income family because there's only a 75% offset rather than the full 100% offset imposed upon other dual income families. Should GPO be repealed, teachers (and other government workers who do not participate in social security) would be placed in a situation more advantageous than that of other dual income families. I do not think that's fair. If the teachers' union argued for ALL dual income families to be treated the same as single income families then I would support the efforts to repeal GPO. But, as long as the unions and teachers only advocate improving social security benefits for dual income families that include a teacher and not all dual income families then I can not support the repeal of GPO.

Posted by Andrew Gardner
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 12, 2009 at 4:08 pm

A legitimate concern indeed. I don't claim to know the details of these pension programs, although I should know. However, I will respond with my personal opinion about the future of government-backed pension programs, no matter what profession or circumstance is involved with it.

Anyone who is solely relying on a government-backed pension program to cover their retirement years should pay particularly close attention to the economic and social impacts of our country and how it will affect the aging citizens of the future, including myself. Frankly, we can not sustain the level of entitlements that have become commonplace. Though CalSTRS and Social Security may be a little booster in my retirement years, I plan to take responsibility for my own standards of living in my future, than allow the government to determine for me. As a teacher of Economics, many of the economic and social challenges that lie ahead in our country are not rocket science to figure out.

I must add though: I don't believe issues of pensions are reflected in the performance of the students in our school district. These kids have the parental and community support, as well as highly qualified teachers and schools to achieve educational success. I believe that SRVUSD is not good because of one thing, it is good because of all things that make up this educational community; money, parents, community, teachers, school facilities, and most importantly, young people who care about their future and have the ability to set goals for themselves.

Hey Money, that was one of the best arguments I've ever heard. Please chime in more often. You would've liked what I had to say the "San Ramon eyes tassajara valley" article. Unfortunately it was cut by the editors. Not sure why. It wasn't derogatory, unless telling the truth is now derogatory. Wait, what am I talking about? Of course it is. Anyway, the county leaders are flooding at least three thousand illegal immigrants into the tassajara valley for the new farm development. Such is why they're building 500 low income homes there, so that we can pay for illegals to flood into are town. Being that Danville is being percieved by county leaders as a conservative bastion, they wish to punish us by taking our land away and giving it to San Ramon to give to illegals. You gotta love a traitorous government. Anyway, we're not gonna just let this happen. We're gonna give the politicians, the contractors and the employers the fight of their lives. We're gonna track the illegals and their under the table wages, and out it all to the local public. Then we're gonna sue the employers for aiding tax evasion.

Posted by Sick o'rick
a resident of Danville
on Sep 13, 2009 at 12:39 pm

Rick
don't you ever get tired of lying? Of just making stuff up to get people upset. No iteration whatsoever of the new farm would have five thousand illegal immigrants flooding anything. There is talk of low income housing to allow people working the fields to have a place to live. That does not mean they will all be illegals and the number is nowhere near what you claim it is. Unless you have seen some version of the plan not presented here or in the times. If so, do what peoplehave asked of you so often and offer one shred of proof.

I am so tired of you making unsupported claims that there will be bazillions of illegal immigrants killing everyone and stealing everything, that there's a bunch more group homes coming into danville "importing" killers and thugs to murder our children, that it's all part of some liberal agenda, blah blah blah. Offer one d*** shred of proof. Just one! But you can't, because you are a liar who gets off on getting people riled up.

You are worse than any of the various thugs etc that you like to rail on about. Most of them don't know any better.

Hey Rick I'm back. Well we have hit 200 yet, we're at 41 responses. But WOW what a bunch of off the subject comments. Rick, there are moments that you start to make sense and then everything goes to hell.

The numskull remark was not appropriate as well as all the other names you use to describe anyone apposing your thoughts. I feel for your family, there must be a lot stress and tension running around your home.

Can't wait until Delores post another hot topic like, "what do the fine folks of Danville think about the illegals infiltrating our schools and community" I'm sure Rick will post a book size comment.

I was referring to the fact that I addressed Sicko after his first attack and it was erased, which is why the next post is Sicko again addressing what I had said (not very well mind you.) But, it is obvious from his two posts that I said something in between.

So, allow me to repeat what I said.

Sicko, you are not worth my time. You must've majored in hypocrisy with a minor in contradiction. Let me thus address the readers to show the load of crap you're blowing out you're piehole.

One, take note of how Sicko says "not all of them will be illegals." You know, at least one or two of the workers will be legal. He also doesn't have the discipline or clarity of mind to read a small paragraph in depth. I said that the estimate is that three thousand illegals will be flooded in, not five thousand.

For those who know my writings, you are probably aware that I often go into long diatribes explaining my line of reasoning. When I do so, I get people like Julia derogatorily commenting that I wrote a book. Here's the thing people. I'm not hiding the facts. I've stated them and backed them up plenty. And it's not as if Rick's got some gate around the evidence and the only way to access it is through me. All who agree or disagree are welcome to do their own research, from the internet to asking your local and county leaders, and I'm not even remotely afraid of the truths you will discover, because the truth is what I speak.

And, Isabel. No s***. That's what I'm saying. The jobs should go to citizens, but the employers must pay properly as Money stated in his comment.

Take note of how once again my opponents try the not-so-clever tact of saying I'm more dangerous than my enemies. I am a man with differing opinions than his, therefore I'm as dangerous as raping, child-killing thugs? Right

By the way, Sicko has a vested interest in the new farm development. My sources tell me that a major campaign is being launched by a multitude of traitorous forces to subvert the conservatives of Danville

Posted by Sick O'Rick
a resident of Danville
on Sep 14, 2009 at 3:18 pm

LOL. Man, do you just cut and paste your arguements in? Anytime someone challenges you you follow the same tack.
1. Call them names and demean their intelligence. (you do know what demean is don't you? Should I use a smaller words? Less syllables?)
2. You pick some typo or misspelling to indicate they don't know anything. Yup, I said five thousand instead of three. That so changes your argument or the fact that you don't know jack.
3. You claim knowledge you don't have. Yet offer no proof. "All who agree or disagree are welcome to do their own research, from the internet to asking your local and county leaders". If you know something provable...share it.
4. You threaten violence or violent action. "You will force our hand".
5. When called on the threat you fall back on the old "My opponents say I'm as dangerous as raping, child-killing thugs". Which no one has done. They've simply said that a confessed gun owner who threatens violence is a threat. Which is fact.

Wow, did your sources say I have a vested interest in the New Farm development? How much do I stand to make? I don't think it's in my portfolio, but gosh I better call my broker since Rick says it is so. You're like the EF Hutton of Danville...except that you're full of crap 100% of the time.

A major campaign is being launched? By who? C'mon tough guy, out that shadowy cabal and tell us all the gospel according to Rick? You won't. And you know why? Because you really don't know. And when people don't back down at your attacks and your rants and your threats you've got nothing left. No facts, just innuendoes. No truths, just your ridiculous version of reality.

Once again you offer nothing beyond less than half truths, misdirection and no facts. You're a petulant little boy standing in a shopping mall screaming "Look at me, look at me". I'm looking. Still not impressed by what I'm seeing.

To the readers of this blog, take note of how Sicko whines about me being a "name-caller," while personally insulting me the entire time. this embodies the hypocrisy of the liberal opposition. I actually couldn't care less about the insults. I welcome them, because it opens the doors for me to throw it right back.

I think it's hilarious that this d-bag doesn't get that I'm trying to get people to do their own research, to ask questions of their elected officials. No, I won't reveal all my sources, because they're a secret, just like deep throat. I realize this is not nearly of the same magnitude as the watergate scandal, but the point is that sources are secret and they tell you where to look. Then, it's up to the reporters to investigate and either disprove or prove the accusation. I would love if the Danville Weekly would do a report on the low income complex being planned, specifically concerning the illegals. Equally important, I want the people of Danville and San Ramon to start investigating these issues. The questions could be very simple.

Ask an official "how many illegals are going to be in this new farm development?"

The answer should be, "None. And we're gonna make sure of it."

Anything short of that is obfuscation. You'll probably get an answer like Sicko's, such as "not all of them will be illegal." Ok, well then how many do you expect?

Believe me everyone, I do have sources that are in every council, every planning commission, every major political institution in this area. The facts are, as of now, the plans are to bring in around three thousand illegals, all on our dime.

No, my sources did not specifically identify Sicko as part of the campaign being launched against conservatives. However, it was coincidental that, upon hearing that news, two new d-bags chimed in on this blog whose only purpose seems to be attacking me, indicated by their posted names "Sick O'Rick" and "Rick's Disciple." So maybe it's a coincidence, cause this guy now seems too silly and inept to be part of the said campaign.

Watch out for this mounting assault conservatives. Danville has become a very strong fighter in the conservative backlash to liberal oppression. Whether it be the relatively large healthcare protests, specifically the one against Boxer, who I believe is part of the anti-conservative campaign, but that has not been confirmed yet. The liberals have taken notice of the tea parties going on almost every weekend. They have very much taken a notice of my writings, and most particular the peoples' reaction to them, which have been mostly good. The powers that be see that I am speaking for a significant and seething mass of people who have grown tired of holding their tongues.

And Sicko, you absolutely said I'm worse than the thugs I rail on about, which means that you consider a conservative gun owner to be equally dangerous to rapists and child-murderers, being that those are the thugs I often attack. Take note of that conservatives. Being a gun owner, even if it's only to protect your family, is just as bad as being a rapist and murderer.

PS: Gun ownership and political freedom are protected in the Constitution for a reason. On the other hand, rape and murder are not. Take from that what you will

The several posts that appear above mine are reminiscent of Championship Wrestling, and about as dignified. Regardless of their points of view, they demonstrate that either the author(s) played hookey when they should have attended class, or that the educational system has indeed failed us.

Educated people know how to make their points with more finesse while respecting the opposition, vis a vis "right wingers" such as William F. Buckley, George Will, Ben Wattenberg (yes, Democrat, but conservative). Also note, none of those I've listed behaved like the loudmouths on Championship Wrestling, nor like the knuckleheads on FOX, i.e. Beck, Hannity, etc.

I suppose that my high school civics teacher was right when he said, "The masses are asses." Let's prove him wrong, and please raise the level of the exchange of ideas that the Danville Weekly is providing us.

I would like to ask you to promise me something. I wish that you never treat students of a particular group better than others.

The administrator of the school district who has bargained these deals is Roberta Silverstein, I am aware that she raised 7% last yr. Roberta raised the salaries she dealt with the union, bargain unit. She has done these undercover deals for many yrs. as I recall. I feel very sad that she did not treat you fairly, and you should contact your union president. How can she not pay during the summer? I have knowledge that she pays others in the summer. You should get retroactive pay; it would be of good use at this time I presume.

Keep your fair balance in the classroom. If you need more info, please feel free to ask... I am happy to help.

I hope that you can really get a house; some of the new condos in Danville behind Costco are really nice and new. And some teachers have an application for them.

Also this forum should support you to get you your retroactive raise you deserve fairly for your service. FYI the members of the school district who got the raise are in the Dougherty Valley Strip, even though they have no seniority or a credential... Can you believe that almost all teachers DVHS do not have a credential, and did not go to college :(. You also could get some Harvard Online Course for a Masters or to improve yourself paid in full by the district, as I know many people are taking advantage of this opportunity, you should too. The approval department is the same. Roberta Silverstein.

Keep me in the forum, about the raise, and any other questions that you may have.

Posted by Sick O'Rick
a resident of Danville
on Sep 14, 2009 at 11:06 pm

Once again, lots of rhetoric with no fact.

I can make up sources too. My sources say the New Farm Development will actually be the new Area 51 and the gov't will be stashing all the aliens there. That's why they want all that open space.

And it's very convenient platitudes to say " I want people to do their own investigation". Because then you don't have to actually back up any of your drivel.

And I called you names because that seems to be the way you want to have discourse. I was giving you back a little of what you give to everyone else. And you immediately whine about it. Interesting. Pot, Kettle, Black.

And this is not my first time posting in opposition to you and it really has little to do with names. I chose Sick O'Rick because I am sick and tired of you making things up and claiming them to be true. Then when challenged you do the same thing over and over again.

You also like to twist others words around. Such as your conceit that I equate all gunowners with murdering thugs. Not so. I only equate you with thugs because you constantly make violent threats. I have nothing against conservatives with guns. I have problems with people who continually act in a violent manner, making violent threats who own guns.

Phil, you are right that the level of discourse could be higher. But that is difficult to attain when you have trolls like Rick who see it as their god given right to spew hatred over everything and everyone in an attempt to get attention. My posts back to him and my choice of screen name are a deliberate mockery of the type of posts he chooses to make. My foolish hope (and I'd guess that of Rick's disciple too) was that by presenting him with a mirror of his own
rhetoric it might make him think twice. Apparently that would require him to think at least once. No joy there.

I will try to keep my mockery civil, as per the request of the forum moderators, but when confronted by the kinds of narrow minded intolerant worldview espoused by rick and any of the supporters he hasn't driven away, I can't make any promises.
As for the original topic of this thread. I believe the School District is pretty good. They do a good job of teaching to the STAR test. I don't know that it does our kids a lot of good in the long run, but since that's the way the game is rigged, they play it well and secure funding for us. I don't like the teacher's union, but I don't see that as something that will be changed anytime soon. They are powerful lobbies and our so called representatives really only represent whatever will get them reelected every few years. Not an impressive way to govern.

No, dips***, it is not convenient to tell people to do their own research. Liars are afraid of people doing their own research, because inevitably they'll discover their lies.

I beg of you readers to ask your local and county leaders about these issues I've discussed.

Sicko, I specifically mentioned that you were an annoying hypocrite. I was stunned by your hypocrisy. In no way did I whine about your insults. In fact I clearly stated that I welcome such insults, so that I can throw it right back at nimrods like you.

I've never threatened violence against anyone but the child-killers, the rapists, the women-stranglers, the pedophiles and the like. So stop being a sensationalist. When I "threatened" the Danville Weekly, it was with a poster campaign, something I've described a multitude of times.

I don't know what supporters I turned away, but I certainly find more everyday to replace those you say have left.

Posted by Sick O'Rick
a resident of Danville
on Sep 15, 2009 at 12:36 am

Blah blah blah. No answers, lots of hot air and name calling. This is getting boring. Give a real discernible fact. Don't tell me to call my county and local leaders. I have actually and no one has said that there will be 3,000 illegal immigrants coming into the New Farm Development. No one has said that there will be section 8 housing going into this development.

The devil is in the details you say. Provide those details. I know San Ramon's gen plan would like to see higher densities if that area is developed, but the people (plural) I spoke with at the county have all said that such an action would never be approved.

I'm still waiting for all this action and all your multitudes of supporters to do all these protests, file all these lawsuits etc.

Posted by Andrew Gardner
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 15, 2009 at 8:00 am

Master

I thoroughly appreciate the information you have provided. I will check out the websites and see of these programs could be beneficial to me and my family.

I am not sure if I can believe you "that almost all teachers at DVHS do not have a credential, and did not go to college." Under No Child Left Behind, any teachers hired by a school district must have the proper credentials. I know when I was hired on, that was the first thing they checked. The School District would be breaking the law if most of the teachers at DVHS did not have a credential and I don't believe the district leaders would put this district or DVHS in jeopardy by doing this.

Its clear from both of your posts that you have some issues with Ms. Silverstein, DVHS, and teachers in general. I won't comment about my colleagues on an open forum and I would encourage you to refrain from making blanket statements about teachers in our district. Students have consistently scored well-above average on all standardized tests and we have over 90% of our students going on to higher education. Despite the teachers who may have challenges in the classroom, as a community member or parent, I would definitely consider this school district over most in the State of California. It must have something to do with the people who are creating, delivering, and evaluating curriculum (teachers) in addition to the other many great attributes of the people of this community.

Posted by Master
a resident of another community
on Sep 15, 2009 at 10:36 am

Andrew,

You can check the credential online.

For Example:

Name: GARDNER, ANDREW BEALE

Document Title

Clear Single Subject Teaching Credential

Document Number

070373106

Authorization Code(s)

R142

This document authorizes the holder to provide the following services to English learners: (1) instruction for English language development in grades twelve and below, including preschool, and in classes organized primarily for adults; and (2) specially designed content instruction delivered in English in single-subject-matter (departmentalized) courses as authorized on this document. This authorization also covers classes authorized by other valid, non-emergency credentials held, as specified in Education Code Section 44253.3.

R1S

This document authorizes the holder to teach the subject area(s) listed in grades twelve and below, including preschool, and in classes organized primarily for adults.

Renewal Code(s)

R20

To renew this credential, the holder needs to submit only an application and fee to the Commission prior to the expiration date. The renewal period is five years.

Issuance Date

10/01/2007

Expiration Date

11/01/2012

Social Science (Examination)

How long have you been teaching? It seems that you could have only been teaching legally for two yrs.? But perhaps you have been teaching longer, and the district paid for your credentialing.

It is all about checking the right information with the right agency. Recently, the SRVUSD is having a pending lawsuit from the teacher who does not have the credential, but yet have been working in the district for 6 yrs. They were fined by the feds, because they violate No Child Left Behind. Have a look for yourself before you explode into teacher loves teacher. Ms. Silverstein is the HR Assistant Superintendent, she is the only person who has been delegated the power by the board. If you want your raise, and your summer pay, you have to contact your union rep. to represent you, in dealing with the district, and make sure that your benefits are according to the law. I have nothing to do with that female assistant superintendent, however if you think straight she is the administrator who is fully authorized to negotiate pay increase as well as firing people. If you receive a pink slip, she will personally deliver it to you. If you keep posting on this website and PleasantonWeekly.com she might keep you in mind, or in the pool, which means you can get away for now, but wait and see...

The staff at DVHS were removed because they have been removed on Pink Friday... But again you cannot argue with people who do not have a basis.

I told you about the raise for the benefit of your family, and I think that was a kind act; however SRVUSD is not honest with the taxpayers of the San Ramon Valley. The school district handles multiple lawsuits initiated by heavy weight attorneys who settle for millions of dollar because the district does not want to be exposed.

There are so many things that I know, and I should be working in this paper and fully express my proper Journalism skills, after all I am honest, and that would help a lot of parents.

Your using your school computer for a private gain, you know that is against school policy? And it is in your handbook, and a contract that you probably have failed to read. The district has a monitor on all the computers from the district and there is a "special" computer geek who oversees that the staff members of the district do not screw up, and take pictures of vulgar students, and post them on obscene websites. Who knows what else you are doing on the district computer hmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....................

How can our schools do better with people like you, you do not deserve your salary if you are using our public money for internet usage while on work duty, you get paid for the time you took to write here. That is dishonest by all means.

Forum, please respond?

Hey Rick, now I need your opinion, because this is your specialty? And this forum is boring w/o your comments.

FYI... I do not have anything against any administrators at the district, but if you wish to make your accusation towards me, I will personally contact Roberta Silverstien and communicate with her that you are using this forum while working. Which is unacceptable, and she will have grounds.

Master, I'm sorry for getting so mad at you on the Rylan Fuchs article. I suppose I may have jumped the gun on you. Anyway, I really can't do any better of a job than you're doing right now in this debate. Obviously, I'm in complete agreement with what you're saying. DVHS, in particular, needs to be seriously retooled.

I'll tell you one thing - I doubt Andrew's home sick. Usually, when I'm too sick to work, I don't find random tasks to do, such as blogging. We should call up the school and ask.

Posted by Concerned Queer Parent
a resident of another community
on Sep 15, 2009 at 6:58 pm

I am concerned about the education that are students are receiving and their educators.

I have thought of buying a house in Danville with my partner, but after reading this forum, I am not sure how the community would welcome people like us and our children. We are professional, work in SV.

Posted by Just so you know
a resident of Walnut Creek
on Sep 15, 2009 at 7:25 pmJust so you know is a registered user.

In similar shoes. Much goes into that decision. If you're lesbians, you won't have a great deal of problems. Folks out here are fairly tolerant of lesbians. If you're a gay couple, different story. At that point, I'd say it depends more on the gender of your child(ren). If they're girls, there's less societal judgment so a daughter would do fine. If you have boys and you're a gay couple, I'd look more in the LaMorinda area. Have lived in both the Danville area and the LaMorinda area. Have two high school graduates and twins under the age of 5. There is NO way that I'd send my children to school in Danville. Moved to LaMorinda. No problems.

It depends on where in Danville. I would say 50% would be welcoming & the other 50% would not. There is another gay couple with children living in Danville (I know because of his comments on this website). You may find many nose-up-in-the-air types here, but you will also find some really great people.

Posted by parent
a resident of San Ramon Valley High School
on Sep 15, 2009 at 9:40 pm

Andrew Gardner is an excellent teacher and a major community contributor of time and effort in and out of the classroom; moreover, he shows real courage and integrity in being honest about who he is and what he does. He also offers clear intelligent ideas and explanations on a host of educational matters, and is apparently not threatened by a difference of opinion, unlike the following excerpted prattle presented by a couple of paranoid, know-it-all windbags.

"Master, I'm sorry for getting so mad at you on the Rylan Fuchs article. I suppose I may have jumped the gun on you."

"'ll tell you one thing - I doubt Andrew's home sick. Usually, when I'm too sick to work, I don't find random tasks to do, such as blogging. We should call up the school and ask."

"Shall we call the school and ask, Rick?

Are you going to do it, or I will do it?

I am not angry at you Rick,.."

...he's not really sick, I'm telling, I'm telling...he was on a computer...Good Lord!

Yes, Parent, it's time to filter these guys out. They are harrassing whomever they please, and they squelch the free exchange of ideas in this forum. And given that this is about our schools, it's ironic that these apparently poorly educated people are taking over this forum.

Regardless of their points of view, they demonstrate that either the author(s) played hookey when they should have attended class, or that the educational system has indeed failed us.

Educated people know how to make their points with more finesse while respecting the opposition, vis a vis "right wingers" such as William F. Buckley, George Will, Ben Wattenberg (yes, Democrat, but conservative). Also note, none of those I've listed behaved like the loudmouths on Championship Wrestling, nor like the knuckleheads on FOX, i.e. Beck, Hannity, etc., or like some of the "contributors" to this forum.

I suppose that my high school civics teacher was right when he said, "The masses are asses." Let's prove him wrong, and please raise the level of the exchange of ideas that the Danville Weekly is providing us.

Posted by Master
a resident of another community
on Sep 16, 2009 at 12:30 am

Parent from SRVHS Community:

You have just committed plagiarism against Rick and I.

Can you use your own pea-sized brain to think of some rebottle, not just plagiarizing and rephrasing. It seems that your mind is playing back Rick and I's comments.

Parent, you cannot silence Rick and I, and rip us of our first amendment rights, which is for all in this nation.

You’re defending this teacher because he probably gives your son/daughter an A even if they do not deserve the grade, and your young women or young child did not even pass the 8th grade STAR history exam.

If a teacher is using a computer during teaching hrs. if it is not work related, it is a violation no matter who he is. School administrators need to know that they are paying someone to use their internet and not work. After all, ABG was not fired on Pink Friday, doesn't mean that he won't go sooner or later...

Your opinion is useless, and I do not play it back in my mind, because I have no guilt.

And what is wrong about if we checked if he was at work yesterday?

And Good Lord? What up with that? Good Lord does not give you a license to break rules, understand? Go preach at church not on a blog, I did not know that xxx--xx-xx had a computer or an email.

We should deduct ABG's salaries from the time he spends on the computer, or browsing the net.

Why are you alarmed about what Rick says to me, he is just honest, and can have a civil communication, where people can reconcile, nothing more?

Phil, what kind of teacher did you have masses and buttocks, who is that screw. Probably you had a teacher like ABG. Did your teacher have a credential at that time, or have internet services? How can you remember your teacher, how old are you?

Well folks were at 75 posted comments, still short of my posted number of 200. But some of the posted comments were pretty long so maybe I'll count those as 3 each...that makes the total count as of today about 80...still short but you have time.

I think if you review the posted comments you may find that 5 or maybe 6 relate to the original survey question.

Come on folks...get to it...we need another 120 comments.

How about..."what do you think about all that wasted money rebuilding SRVH".
Or...how about the SRVH burial grounds of those Indians or were there real Indians buried there?
Or instead of hammering the kids about drugs in school...how about the drugs in their own home via the lovely parents.

Thanks to Andrew Gardner for being dedicated to our students. My son had him in high school and told me he was a man with great integrity and really cared about the world, his community and his students. He should be a master teacher so he can instill that special skill he has that allows him to connect and actually help the kids learn something.

So many fantastic and caring people are driven out of teaching because of the ridiculous expectations on the teacher. Teachers are in the classroom to help our children become engaged and excited about learning. They are not miracle makers.